The Instagram alternative, Flashes, has officially launched its Bluesky-based photo-sharing application on the App Store, garnering nearly 30,000 downloads within the first 24 hours. This app provides a classic, Instagram-like experience, enabling users to upload up to four photos and videos with a maximum duration of one minute.

Developed by Berlin-based developer Sebastian Vogelsang, Flashes operates on the AT Protocol (also known as atproto), the same underlying protocol that powers Bluesky.

As Flashes is built on Bluesky, a social networking startup with over 32 million users, it has access to a built-in audience. This means that posts created on the Flashes app are compatible with Bluesky, allowing them to reach a broader audience beyond Flashes users.

Although Flashes shares similarities with Instagram, it offers more customization options. Unlike being controlled by a company-made algorithm, Flashes users can access over 50,000 custom feeds on Bluesky, enabling them to curate content as desired. Additionally, the app features built-in feeds for top and latest posts across Bluesky’s network.

The app includes features designed to cater to photographers seeking to showcase their work. For instance, the “Portfolio Mode” allows users to curate their profile by selecting the media to be displayed to visitors, enabling them to feature their best photographs prominently.

Posts created within Flashes can be edited using built-in photo filters, similar to Instagram.

A new feature focuses on curated feeds from artists. Flashes is introducing this update with images from the Blacksky community, which has been developing Bluesky tools for the Black community, including Blacksky feeds, a moderation service, and other technical features.

Vogelsang has engaged in conversations with investors regarding funding and is open to opportunities. As of Thursday, the app had reached 40,500 downloads and is one of several new efforts building on the Bluesky platform.